Eastern Europe Explorer

Intrepid Travel · 19 days
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
Eastern Europe Explorer
19 Days
From AUD $6130
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (14 reviews)

Eastern Europe Explorer

Eastern Europe Explorer

Intrepid Travel · 19 days
4.7
14 Reviews
View Map
Duration

19 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore the Baroque churches of Budapest and haunted castles of Transylvania on this 18-day journey across Eastern Europe.

Highlights

  • Sample the famous Hungarian 'Bulls’ Blood' in Eger – the wine that supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire.
  • Learn spooky stories in Transylvania – the birthplace of the world's most famous vampire, Dracula. Then visit Bran Castle in Brasov – the inspiration for Dracula’s home.
  • Travel through the scenic Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, mingling with monks at the 10th-century Rila Monastery.
  • Indulge in local Bulgarian cheese and wines with a local chef in Veliko Tarnovo, at their family-owned spot in the Old Town.
  • Breathe the crisp mountain air on a short hike in the Pirin Mountains in Bulgaria, stopping at a small blue lake surrounded by towering peaks.

Trip Details

Duration

19 days

Transportation

Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Metro,Tram,Taxi,Chairlift

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Budapest, Bulgaria

Finishes

Istanbul, Bulgaria

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Budapest
Szia! Welcome to Hungary. Since the collapse of communism, Budapest has experienced something of a renaissance. The grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by, while glamorous stores and restaurants make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, you might like to head out to explore the city by night – the twinkling lights of the evening are an essential part of the Budapest experience. Maybe visit the Jewish Quarter for dinner and explore the many options for a celebratory nightcap.

Optional Activities:

  • Budapest - Transport and Entry to Statue Park (5000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Faust Wine Cellar Tasting (21 EUR)
  • Budapest - Szechenyi Thermal Baths (starting from) (9400 HUF)
  • Budapest - Parliament Tour (13000 HUF)
  • Budapest - Hungarian State Opera House Tour (9000 HUF)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Eger
This morning, take a train east to Eger. This beautifully preserved Baroque town is surrounded by hills and is home to some of the most renowned vineyards in Eastern Europe. Visit the wine cellars of the seductively named Valley of the Beautiful Women to sample some of the town's famous 'Bull's Blood' red wine (which supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire). In your free time, maybe explore Eger's 13th-century castle, which was the scene of the historic siege that thwarted the Ottoman Empire's advancement into Western Europe. Here, you can explore the Gothic Palace, a gallery of fine Hungarian art, and tour underground passageways of archaeological finds. You may also like to check out the town's 19th-century cathedral, the northernmost medieval minaret in Europe for views of the city, or the Minorite church in Dobo Square.

Included Activities:

  • Eger - Wine Sampling

Optional Activities:

  • Eger - Castle (4000 HUF)
  • Eger - Minaret (800 HUF)
  • Eger - Astronomy Museum, Camera Obscura, Panoramic terrace in the Lyceum building (2600 HUF)
  • Eger - Town Under The Town (4500 HUF)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Maramures
This morning, travel to the pleasant town of Debrecen. While here, you'll have time to explore Deri Square with its fountains, colourful buildings, museums and golden Great Church. Continue by train and private vehicle across the central plains into the Maramures region of Romania – this region may be modernising, but among the traditional wooden houses, churches, music and forests, you can still find parts of life unchanged since medieval times. When you arrive, settle into your room at the pension – your accommodation for the night is run by a local family. Sit down for a homecooked dinner with your group and get to know the locals, their stories and their lifestyle.

Accommodation:

  • Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Maramures
Today you’ll discover more about the region of Maramures (mah-ra-moo-resh). Rich in tradition and folklore, the music, costumes, festivals and ancient superstitions of one of the last peasant cultures in Europe continue to thrive here. Maramures is particularly famed for its wooden churches, many of which are World Heritage-listed. Set out on a guided group tour to explore the region, visiting the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where the life stories of the deceased are displayed on colourful wooden crosses. There are poems, limericks and little pictures illustrating how the person died, all single-handedly carved over 40 years by Stan Ioan Patraş, until 1977 when his apprentice took up the work. You’ll also see other traditional villages including the village museum in Sighetu – an assembly of beautiful local wooden architecture.

Included Activities:

  • Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
  • Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
  • Maramures - Barsana Monastery

Accommodation:

  • Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Sighisoara
This morning, get ready for a scenic drive to Sighisoara – while the name may conjure up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires, this is only a small part of what makes Transylvania such an enchanting and exciting destination. Medieval Sighisoara is likely to seduce visitors more than any other place in Romania. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town was first settled by the Romans but flourished under the Saxons from the 12th century. Take a walk around the old town, which coils up a narrow hill surrounded on all sides by fortified walls and explore the 64-metre-high clock tower that dominates the citadel. The town is famed as the birthplace of Vlad Dracul III, better known as Vlad the Impaler, whose name inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic Count Dracula. Vlad III is revered as a folk hero by Romanians for driving off the invading Ottoman Turks, of which his impaled victims are said to have included as many as 100,000. Tonight, maybe sit down for a traditional Romanian dinner at Casa Dracula.

Optional Activities:

  • Sighisoara - Church of the Dominican Monastery (10 RON)
  • Sighisoara - Covered Stairway - Free
  • Sighisoara - Church on the Hill (5 RON)
  • Sighisoara - The Clock Tower (16 RON)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Viscri
This morning, take a short drive to the village of Viscri – this small Transylvanian village was originally inhabited by Saxons from the Luxembourg area and the rural landscape is picture-perfect. This idyllic village of red tiled roofs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, virtually unchanged for 900 years. You’ll visit the town's fortified church (thought to be the oldest in Transylvania).Time permitting, you may even like to go for a horse cart ride through the area, over pastures and through wondrous woods of oak and hornbeam. In the evening, indulge in a home-cooked dinner prepared by a local family, sampling fresh produce, homemade wines and schnapps. Tonight, stay in rustic houses that the locals rent out to visitors.

Included Activities:

  • Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
  • Viscri - Fortified Church

Optional Activities:

  • Viscri - Prince Charles House (15 RON)
  • Viscri - Blacksmith demonstration (80 RON)

Accommodation:

  • Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Brasov
This morning, you’ll visit the famed Bran Castle. Said to be the inspiration for the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula, the castle isn’t too spooky, but it is undeniably impressive. Perched on a high cliff top and surrounded by pine trees, you’ll explore the castle with your leader and group – this is the perfect photo op! After, travel to Brasov and enjoy free time to explore, checking out the ornate churches, townhouses and squares surrounded by gingerbread-roofed merchants' houses. For those looking for a bit of nightlife tonight, Brasov has plenty of funky bars and restaurants to enjoy once darkness falls.

Included Activities:

  • Bran Castle - Tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Brasov
Today after breakfast, you will enjoy a full free day in Brasov. Also known by its German name of Kronstadt, the town is flanked by mountains and was once a major medieval trading centre. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to wander, take an optional activity or just find a good spot to eat and people-watch. The town's main attraction is the gothic Black Church (Biserica Neagra), which took its name from its blackened appearance after a fire in 1689. Maybe stroll along pedestrianised Strada Republicii, take a cable car up to Mt Tampa, or maybe explore the nearby Rasnov Fortress. The fortification is perched on a rocky hilltop above the town of Rasnov and was constructed by Teutonic Knights in the 13th century as a refuge for the common people from Tartar invaders.

Optional Activities:

  • Rasnov - Fortress (20 RON)
  • Brasov - Walking Tour with Local Guide (200 RON)
  • Brasov - The Black Church (20 RON)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Bucharest
Head south to Bucharest on the train today – the city is increasingly known for its cosmopolitan vibe and energy. While not the most beautiful or stylish city, there are some wonderful art nouveau buildings, ancient churches and monasteries, lush parklands, lakes and elegant boulevards. Romania's capital also likes big things – it’s home to one of Europe's biggest squares, and its Palace of Parliament is the second-largest building in the world! You'll embark on a guided walking tour around town to help you get your bearings, and then you have loads of free time to choose your own adventure. Explore some of the sights further or maybe seek out some traditional home-cooked Romanian food with your fellow travellers.

Included Activities:

  • Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Bucharest - Bike Tour (25 EUR)
  • Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour (75 EUR)
  • Bucharest - Village Museum (30 RON)
  • Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour (60 RON)
  • Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum (10 RON)
  • Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence (65 RON)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Bucharest
Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Maybe join an Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour, visit the Former Ceausescu Residence or learn about the region’s history on a Palace of Parliament Tour. Tonight, maybe head out for a drink or dinner and get to know any new travellers joining you.

Optional Activities:

  • Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour (60 RON)
  • Bucharest - Village Museum (30 RON)
  • Bucharest - Bike Tour (25 EUR)
  • Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence (65 RON)
  • Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum (10 RON)
  • Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest (75 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Veliko Tarnovo
Travel across the Friendship Bridge into Bulgaria and on to the town of Veliko Tarnovo – founded in 4500 BC by the Neolithic people, the Romans later built the first fortress walls. In the 6th century, a Byzantine capital was established on Tsarevets Hill by Emperor Justinian. After the foundation of the second Bulgarian empire, it became the second most important city in the region (after Constantinople) and trade and culture flourished for the next 200 years. In 1393, the town fell to the Turks who held the city until the Russians liberated it in 1877. When you arrive, head out with your leader for an orientation walk, finishing in the Old Town at a family-owned establishment. Here, a local chef will invite you to an authentic and interactive experience that will showcase the rich history of Bulgarian cheese and wine making. The menu includes tasty items such as truffle cheese, cold cuts and locally produced premium wine – what could be a better introduction?

Included Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo- Orientation Walk
  • Veliko Tarnovo- Local Cheese and Wine Workshop

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Veliko Tarnovo
This morning, visit Veliko Tarnovo's imposing Tsarevets Fortress, which overlooks the city. This once-magnificent fortress was built in the 7th century, and the ruined citadel is the perfect spot to wander. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the City of Tsars. Maybe wander through the Old Quarter, with its preserved Renaissance houses and handicraft workshops or relax in one of the town's cafes or vinarnas (wine bars).

Included Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress

Optional Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Archeological Museum (6 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Sofia
In the morning, take a public bus to Sofia – Bulgaria's capital is a cosmopolitan city with wide tree-lined boulevards and parks. Along the way, stop at Kazanlak Valley, also known as the Valley of Roses. This valley is famous for the growing of the Damascena rose, which is used to produce rose oil – a key ingredient in the perfume industry. After, wander through Etno Village – an open-air museum showcasing Bulgarian culture and crafts from the 18th and 19th centuries. From here, visit the Family Rose Distillery and learn about the distillation process and history of rose oil production. Your last stop is at Thracian Tombs – a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved murals from the Hellenistic period, depicting burial rituals and Thracian culture. Later, continue to Sofia, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

Included Activities:

  • Kazanlak Valley - Tracian tombs
  • Kazanlak Valley - Family Rose distillery
  • Kazanlak Valley - Etno Village visit

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Sofia
Today is a free day for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe browse around the cured meats and cheese at the Central Market Hall, then walk through the city and see the gold-domed Alexander Nevski Church. This afternoon, maybe sate your cultural curiosity at the National History Museum, discover artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum or spend a couple of hours staring at the local artworks in the National Art Gallery.

Included Activities:

  • Sofia - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

  • Sofia - The Red Flat (18 BGN)
  • Sofia - Walking Tour with Local Guide from (17 BGN)
  • Sofia - National History Museum (15 BGN)
  • Sofia - National Art Gallery (10 BGN)
  • Sofia - Aleksander Nevski Church - Free
15
Day 15: Bansko
Today, journey into the Rila Mountains, where you'll visit the Rila Monastery. Tucked away in a valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest and holiest of Bulgaria's orthodox monasteries. Founded in 927, the entire complex is a work of art in itself. Check out murals, the 14th-century Hrelyo Tower, the five-domed Birth of the Blessed Virgin Church and the original 19th-century monastery kitchen. Then, carry on to Bansko. Set at the base of the Pirin Mountains, Bansko is home to more than 150 cultural monuments and many of its stone houses have been transformed into mehanes (taverns). Wander through Vazrazhdane and check out the frescoes of the Church of Sveta Troitsa or the paintings in the Rilski Convent. Tonight, indulge in some local cuisine and try filet elena (spicy cured meat) or kapama (simmered meat, rice and sauerkraut), washing it down with some delicious melnik (dark red wine).

Included Activities:

  • Rila - Monastery Visit

Optional Activities:

  • Bansko - Spa Visit (40 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
16
Day 16: Plovdiv
Drive to Vihren Chalet – the starting point of today’s hike in the Pirin Mountains. You’ll head to the small but picturesque Okoto Lake for panoramic views over the valley – you might even be able to see the range’s highest peak, Mt Vihren. From here, maybe continue to Banderitsko Lake or opt to stay in Bansko and visit the thermal baths. This afternoon, board the only operational gauge line in Bulgaria – Rhodope Railway. After the scenic ride, you’ll continue to Plovdiv – on the Maritsa River, this city was once the meeting point of two ancient transportation routes. In the evening, maybe wander the bustling city streets and try some of the local grilled meats and vegetables on skewers.

Included Activities:

  • Pirin Mountains - Hike
  • Rhodope Narrow-Gauge Railway
  • Plovdiv-Private Transfer from Plovdiv Train Station to Plovdiv Hotel

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
17
Day 17: Plovdiv
This morning, join a local guide for a tour of the main sights of Plovdiv. The most remarkable being the ancient Roman theatre, accidentally discovered after a landslide exposed the site in the early 1970s. Built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of Trajanus, the theatre seats about 6000 people and is now back in use! From here, wander up to the site of the former hilltop fortress of Nebet Tepe, where you can enjoy excellent views of the city. Head back down to visit the 15th-century Dzhumaya Mosque, which is still in use today. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace – maybe explore the street art and cafes of the Kapana Creative District or learn about Bulgarian culture and traditions at the Ethnographic Museum.

Included Activities:

  • Plovdiv - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Plovdiv - Bachkovo Monastery (16 BGN)
  • Plovdiv - Hisarya Hot Springs (50 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
18
Day 18: Istanbul
Get ready for a long day of travel today that takes you from Europe to Asia. Grab a window seat if you can and watch the scenery pass you by or get stuck into a good book. You'll be travelling how the locals do – on a bus along the Tsarigrad Road, also named the Road to Istanbul. When you arrive in the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have called home, you'll have some free time to settle in. Tonight, maybe head out for dinner with your group and indulge in a real Turkish kebab (yum!)

Included Activities:

  • Istanbul- Private Transfer from Istanbul Bus Station to Istanbul Hotel
  • Plovdiv- Private Transfer from Plovdiv Hotel to Plovdiv Bus Station

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
19
Day 19: Istanbul
With no further activities planned, your adventure officially comes to an end. If you would like to extend your stay in Istanbul, and it’s recommended that you do, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

  • Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Archaeology Museum (340 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (390 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Galata Tower (650 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $6,130
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 19 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Explore the Baroque churches of Budapest and haunted castles of Transylvania on this 18-day journey across Eastern Europe.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 16 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Stacey
Traveled, October 2023

10/28/2023

This was an excellent educational tour for those of us who knew very little about the history of these countries particularly during the communist era. The food and wine were way better than I had anticipated which was great. There is a lot of walking and moving from place to place using local and public transportation. There is plenty of opportunities to spend money within these communities and let you feel you are contributing something to them. I definitely recommend this trip but it is a fatiguing pace. So be ready.

4.5
Pauline
Traveled, September 2023

09/29/2023

The countries I visited in the Eastern Europe trip were great. It was interesting to learn about their history and culture and how these countries - Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary and Turkey have adapted and moved on from the Communist regime times. I would highly recommend this trip

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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